Conterno Fantino, Barbera d’Alba (Piedmont, Italy) 2008

 This terrific Barbera is one of the best that I’ve tasted during the past year.  It shows lots of delicious fruit that is full of flavor without any hint of over-ripeness.  More impressive still is the fact that the fruit notes are accompanied by an extremely appealing meaty, savory character that marks both the aromas and flavors.  The finish is persistent and focused thanks to moderate tannin and also bright thanks to plenty of ripe acidity.  This will prove extremely versatile at the table, and will work very well with a whole host of moderately robust meat and pasta dishes.